Cunard Line has officially welcomed its latest cruise ship, the Queen Anne, marking a significant addition to its luxury fleet. The handover ceremony took place on April 19, 2024, at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard near Venice, Italy, attended by a gathering of government officials and maritime executives.
Queen Anne is notable as Cunard’s first new ship in over a decade and the 249th vessel to enter the Cunard Line fleet. The ship’s delivery brings Cunard’s fleet to four active passenger vessels for the first time since 1999.
Cunard Line’s President, Katie McAlister, expressed her excitement, stating, “We are so excited to welcome Queen Anne to our fleet as she completes a remarkable quartet alongside Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria – marking the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service. We are now fully focused on readying her to welcome guests for her maiden voyage on 3 May before she embarks on an historic British Isles Festival Voyage, including a momentous Naming Ceremony in Cunard’s spiritual home of Liverpool on 3 June.”
The new cruise ship embodies a modern design while honoring the 182-year-old maritime tradition of the Cunard Line. It has 14 decks, can host 3,000 guests, and offers distinctive features such as a two-level Royal Court Theatre, 15 restaurants, and the Mareel Wellness & Beauty Center.
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, proudly highlighted the significant milestone: “We are very pleased and eager to deliver Queen Anne to Cunard, a pioneering figure in luxury sea travel, renowned for setting new standards in oceanic voyages for over 180 years. This beautiful and iconic ship testifies the longstanding partnership between our two companies, underscoring our shared commitment to excellence and tradition in the maritime industry.”
Queen Anne introduces several culinary innovations, including partnerships with two-Michelin star chef Michel Roux. Roux developed unique menus to create a high-end culinary experience for passengers.
Guests can look forward to new culinary experiences, from traditional pub food at the Golden Lion to exotic dishes at Aranya, the ship’s new Indian restaurant.
Following its inaugural cruise from Southampton on May 3, 2024, Queen Anne will host a naming ceremony in Liverpool on June 3, 2024. The christening ceremony ends with a 14-night British Isles Festival Voyage, celebrating the ship’s entry into service and reinforcing Cunard’s deep historical ties with Liverpool.
Queen Anne’s arrival heralds a new era for Cunard, emphasizing luxury and innovation while celebrating the brand’s storied past. The ship promises an unparalleled journey for its passengers, steeped in the comfort and elegance that Cunard is known for.
